Edge Davao 8 Issue 204 by Edge Davao The Business Paper

VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

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EDGEDAVAO Serving a seamless society

M A

K E R

2 0 1 5 By CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY

HE presidential bid of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte, the daring abduction of three foreign national and a Filipino in a posh resort and the death of a top New People’s Army (NPA) leader marked an eventful and dramatic year 2015 in this part of the land.

There were also other big events taking place, like the mass

evacuation of the indigenous peoples, the citywide drug raids involv-

ing several law enforcement agencies and the brouhaha arising from reports that alleged fake rice was circulating in the city. Tears flowed—first from sadness and dismay and then that of joy and fulfillment—as

Duterte authored one of the most sensational stories that were chronicled by the national press and social media when he eventually decided to join the presidential race in May. For heading the people’s call for him to seek

the presidency, Duterte’s decision came as a victory of sorts for the Dabawenyos and his legions of supporters no leader from the island region has captured Malacañang. With his entry into the presiden-

FNEWSMAKERS, 2

Photos by Lean Daval Jr. and Armando Fenequito Jr.

2 COVER STORY EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

NEWSMAKERS... FROM 1 tial race, the extremely popular Duterte has a fighting chance of becoming the first politician from Mindanao to land the country’s highest position.

SAMAL KIDNAPPING But, while Duterte’s joining the presidential derby came as the most delightful news to his constituents and supporters, the year didn’t end without some development that was a big blow to tourism. In September, armed men numbering around 11 stormed a resort in the Island Garden City of Samal and seized two Canadians nationals, a Norwegian and a Filipina in a daring kidnapping that jolted the region’s tranquility. The abduction of Norwegian Kjartan Sekkinstad, who is the operations manager of the resort, Canadians John Ridsel and Robert Hall and his fiancée Filipina Marithes Flor was reported both in the national and international

media. All of the victims are still being held by the local terrorist gunmen somewhere in Jolo, Sulu.

END OF THE ROAD FOR PARAGO In June, Leoncio Pitao alias Kumander Parago, aveteran leader of the NPA, and his medical officer were killed in an encounter with government troops. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Parago and his medic exchanged fire with soldiers tailing their movement in the hinterlands of Pañalom, Paquibato District. Mayor Duterte allowed the NPA rebels to come to the city to visit the wake of Parago, his friend, and attend his burial rites. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) claimed victory in its campaign against the CPP-NPA, saying that the death of Parago will weaken the communist insurgency. CAMPAIGN VS ILLEGAL

DRUGS In a continuing effort of the local police against illegal drugs, a massive raid was conducted in two separate occasions last year that led to the killing of nine suspected pushers and arrest of around 80 individuals. The first massive raid was conducted in different parts of the city last July where seven suspected drug pushers were slain by joint operatives

of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 11, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) 11, Police Regional Office (PRO) 11, and the Maritime Police. The operation, called COPLAN KAAGAPAY, started at around 3 a.m. on July 15 and ended past 8 a.m. The operation also led to the recovery of a total of 353 grams of shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride) with an estimated street value of P3.2 million pesos and 73 grams of marijuana with estimated street value of P73,000. Another raid of such magnitude was staged in December that resulted to the killing of two suspected drug pushers and apprehension of some 40 other suspects. MASS EVACUATION Year 2015 also marked the mass evacuation of more than 1,000 indigenous peoples (IPs) from Talaingod, Davao del Norte. The lumads found

shelter in Davao City, and their evacuation because of alleged militarization in their area also became a big media event. The episode was highlighted with an incident at the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP)-Haran compound where they sought refuge when police moved in to try to “rescue” the lumads. Police authorities justified their action by claiming that the IPs were being held against their will by the militant groups. Several cops and lumads were hurt during the scuffle. Vice Mayor Paolo Z. Duterte, who was then acting mayor then, arrived at the scene. Most of the lumads had gone home, but many of them are still in Haran. FAKE RICE BROUHAHA The controversy over the alleged proliferation of fake rice in the city likewise provided a media frenzy in the second part of the year. The story started when a consumer report-

ed to the media about the “fake rice” that was bought from a store somewhere in Matina. Government agencies immediately conducted an investigation, but would later announce that there was no conclusive evidence that supposedly fake rice in Davao was only contaminated.

INDIAN VS INDIAN The year actually started with a controversy when Indian medical students at the Davao Medical School Foundation (DMSF) sought the help of City Hall after alleging falling prey to another Indian Dr. Ashin Mohan, the school’s chief operating officer. The students, numbering around 200, have accused Mohan of extortion, illegal detention and implementation of unjust rules and fines. The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) conducted a probe of the allegations. Mr. Mohan denied all allegations thrown at him.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

EDGEDAVAO

4 NEWS EDGEDAVAO

VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

City downplays 7-Eleven issue

WASTE COLLECTION. Workers from the City Environment and Natural Resources (CENRO) collect piles of unsold and rotten vegetables at the Bagsakan area in Bankerohan yesterday. Lean Daval Jr.

PNP still finalizing election watchlist T HE Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 does not have a final list yet of the possible election watch list areas (EWA) in the Davao Region. In an interview, PRO 11 spokesperson Chief Inspector Andrea dela Cerna said the PRO 11 is still conducting its validation and monitoring in some areas in the region. Dela Cerna said the initial list bared last month will change depending on the assessment of the police station commanders in their respective areas. “They (station commanders) are the ones who give assessment to their areas and forward it to the regional office for us to evaluate if the area will be place on category 1 or 2,” she said.

Dela Cerna said a certain town, city, or province can be considered an EWA if there are existing threats in connection with the election and if there is intense political rivalry. She said category 1 are areas where politically motivated violence incidents were reported in the past two elections. These incidents do not include those in which domestic terror groups participated. Category 2 are areas where there are serious armed threats and groups or reports regarding terrorist groups. Dela Cerna said areas that are included in both categories will be placed under Category 3. Dela Cerna earlier initially identified Marilog and Paquibato Districts of Davao City as

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AFP ready to evacuate OFWs in Middle East

ITH Saudi and Iranian relations at an all-time low with the execution of top Shiite cleric Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr last Jan. 2, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Hernando DCA Iriberri said the military is more than ready to evacuate overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) if directed by government. “We are just waiting on what directive the government will give us,” he added.

There are over one million OFWs in the Middle East. Iriberri said the AFP has the capability to evacuate Filipino workers in the Middle East thanks to its Lockheed C-130 “Hercules” cargo planes and brand-new Airbus Military C-295 medium transport aircraft. “If there is a need to use that to transport our OFWs then we will be more than glad to provide mobility assets if directed,” he added. (PNA)

By ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

abf@edgedavao.net

AVAO City assistant city administrator Tristan Dwight Domingo downplayed the problem of the 7-Eleven with the city government, saying there is “no big issue” facing the popular chain of convenience stores. “It just happened that our attention was called that some of them are selling cigarettes

within their establishments and pursuant to law these branches are not allowed to sell cigarettes,” Domingo said in an interview on Thursday, Domingo said the 7-Eleven management has already presented its intention to comply with the ordinances of the city receiving a warning from city administrator Jesus Melchor V.

Quitain. “On our side, we will just continue monitoring it. There is really no big issue here,” Domingo said. Last week, Dr. Domilyn Villareiz, co-chair of the Anti-Smoking Task Force, confirmed that all 7-Eleven establishments have already stopped selling cigarettes or

any tobacco products. In a letter to 7-Eleven management dated November 23, Quitain said the convenience stores violated City Ordinance No. 0367, otherwise known as the “New Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance of Davao City” based on the investigation conducted by the

be merged as they are not correlated. “I don’t think we should agree to the consolidation because iba naman ang Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET) na kaso. Disqualification niya yun bilang senador. Yung sa amin, cancellation ng Certificate of Candidacy (CoC) niya bilang president. So magkaiba naman,” she explained. Likewise, the poll body official said the cases involve

different parties as well as dissimilar sets of evidence. “Hindi na lang ho sana ma-consolidate... pero depende pa din naman sa SC yan,” Guanzon added. Last November, the SET ruled in favor of Poe that she is a natural-born Filipino, and is qualified as an elected senator in the 2013 polls. Petitioner Rizalito David has appealed the SET decision before the High Court.

In December, the Comelec en banc upheld the two rulings of its First and Second Divisions, which found the lawmaker not a natural-born Filipino and also failed to meet the 10-year residency requirement. Poe has filed a petition before the High Court seeking to reverse the Comelec en banc decision. The SC has issued a tempo-

Comelec disagrees with Poe’s move to consolidate DQ cases A

N official of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) does not agree with the action of presidential aspirant and Senator Grace Poe to consolidate her disqualification cases pending before the Supreme Court (SC). Comelec Commissioner Rowena Guanzon noted that the disqualification cases involving Poe’s Senate seat and her certificate of candidacy (CoC) for president should not

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5 YEARENDER

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

Soaring year for EDGE Davao T

HE MANAGEMENT and staff of Edge Davao look back to 2015 with special fondness and pride because in that eventful year this fledgling community paper, its staff writers and contributors won numerous awards in various aspects of journalism.

“Best-edited,” other awards Edge Davao was declared “Best-Edited Paper” in the daily category in the Community Journalism Award bestowed by the Philippine Press Institute at the Diamond Hotel, Manila on May 15, 2015. Aside from the accolade, which is considered the most-coveted award, Edge Davao also ran away with the “Best in Environmental Reporting” and “Best in Culture, Arts and History Reporting” awards, thus becoming the winningest community paper that year. PPI picks winners in a total of six aspects annually, including “Best in Photojournalism,” “Best in Business and Economic Reporting,” and “Best Editorial Page.” It was actually the second year in a row that Edge Davao was adjudged “Best

Edited,” the first being in 2014. Launched in 2008, Edge Davao is the youngest of the community papers which competed in the yearly contest. The PPI jurors cited Edge Davao for “allowing the readers to arrive with a stand, succeeded in manifesting the conviction of the community

members while embodying transparency and excellence in delivering the news to the community.” The paper “demonstrated the highest standards in terms of creativity, quality, utility and style of writing that uphold the highest journalistic standards and tradition. It presents with more consistency a

strong and concise community relevant stories. The style of writing is such that even as an article deals on local events it is never myopic and parochial in treatment because its perspective also transcends beyond the locality.’ Why “best in environmental reporting” In declaring it “best in en-

vironmental reporting,” the paper was cited for “actively dedicating regular coverage of environmental reports through news, features, columns and editorials that help promote high degree of environmental consciousness among the public. EDGE DAVAO is mindfully aware of the power of information in

molding an environmentally-critical public.” On the other hand, the board of jurors said “precisely exercised its excellence in a community-oriented culture, arts and history articles. It really focused on the preservation, protection and promotion of the cultural practices, local artists and presented to the readers the impacts of arts and culture on community life.” The proudest moment for the paper came when Henrylito Tacio, its top feature writer, won a total of five journalism awards in 2015. This is how Henrylito tells his story: “Everyone loves a surprise. That’s what awards are all about. Last year, I didn’t get only one surprise but five -- yes, five awards in a matter of weeks. Here’s a rundown of the awards: First Place, News Report from the Jose G. Burgos Jr. Awards for Biotech Journalism: It was for my write-up, Understanding Bt Technology, which appeared in EDGE Davao. Third Place, News Feature

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EDGEDAVAO

6 ECONOMY

VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

Banana Congress set in Davao By CHENEEN R. CAPON

crc@edgedavao.net

OME 1,000 stakeholders of the banana industry from all over the country will convene in Davao City on April 1 and 2 for the National Banana Congress. Participants to the twoday event at the SMX Davao Convention Center are expected to formulate resolutions zeroing on pressing issues of the multi-billion industry. PhilExport Confederation-Davao chapter president Ferdinand D. Marañon said among the issues that will also be discussed in the congress are industry threats like the

Panama disease, tighter global market, and regulations of local government units here that prohibit the growth of the industry. Marañon said big plantation operators declared more than 6,000 hectares of banana plantations in Mindanao are already infected with the Panama disease or Fusarium wilt. “We are planning to pass a resolution requesting the government to help in propagating new Panama disease-resistant varieties to more banana farmers,” Marañon told reporters last Friday. He said “government is

Nat’l gov’t budget surplus at P6B in November 2015

HE national government’s budget balance in November 2015 was at a surplus of P6 billion, bringing the yearto-date balance to a deficit of P46.5 billion. The primary balance for the month was at a surplus of P22.0 billion, while year-to-date primary surplus registered at P241.3 billion. In a statement, the Department of Finance (DOF) said total revenues for the month of November reached P177.5 billion, 12 percent or P19.2 billion higher than the year-ago figure. Meanwhile, total revenues for the period of January-November reached P1.95 trillion, reflecting a 12 percent growth year-on-year. “We approach the P2 trillion mark resolute in our commitment to expand fiscal space for the Filipino people,” Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima said.

“Hitting our infrastructure spending goal of 5 percent to GDP this year is no walk in the park; we still have a lot of catching up to do compared to our peers. Thus, we remain firm in our fiscal discipline. We will continue developing our tax administration and enforcement capacity,” Purisima added. The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) hauled in P136.4 billion for the month, 12 percent wider than yearago figures. This pulls yearto date collections of the BIR at P1.33 trillion, growing 9 percent or P106.9 billion from year-ago figures. The Bureau of Customs (BOC) raised P29.1 billion in November, growing by 18 percent on year-ago figures. This makes total January-November figures amount to P329.8 billion, expanding by 2 percent

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DA cites private sector’s support to farm mechanization program

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) said on Friday it is pleased with the private sector’s response to the government’s farm mechanization program as the use of farm machineries has steadily increased throughout the country. Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala said the private sector has been very supportive of the farm mechanization program that the DA has initiated since the start of President Benigno S. Aquino III’s administration, as gauged from the proliferation of newer and cheaper farm technologies in the country. Citing from DA records, he said that the government has only given out 200 combined harvesters to farmers’ cooperatives throughout the country, but currently there are now

more than 2,000 of the units being operated in the Philippines. “It means the private sector sees that the program is good and has begun investing on farm machineries. They are starting to see the benefits of the government’s farm mechanization program and they are emulating it,” he said. The Agriculture chief said that the program -- which aims to increase harvest and reduce losses with the use of modern planting technologies for the benefit of local farmers -- is now in full swing. The program also targets to increase farmers’ income by almost 15 percent with the use of modern machines and methods. “The DA’s farm mechanization program intends to in-

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not giving full support on the propagation new developed varieties.” At present, the Department of Agriculture (DA) 11 developed demo areas in different Panama disease-infected plantations in the region to test the resistance and survival of the Giant Cavendish Tissue Culture Variety (GCTCV) 218 and GCTCV 219. Marañon said the sector need to be subsidized for the purchase of more planting material and other farm inputs like pesticides and fertilizers. “A farmer would need an

approximate of P20,000 to P30,000 per hectare which the government,” he added. “A hectare would need about 2,000 seedlings worth P20 each.” The local banana industry, he said, also continues to face the threat of increasing competition in the global market as more countries start to penetrate Philippines’ traditional markets like Japan and China. “Our export decreased in the past few years because Japan and China are already importing banana from Latin America,” he added. Banana is

the top export commodities of the region aside from coconut that fuelled the regional economy in 2015. Aside from the banana exported from Latin American countries, several nations in the Asean are also exploring the production of exportable banana like Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Indonesia. To cope with the decreasing global demand, banana producers and exporters here are imploring of lessening further their production cost by using less input materials but still maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness in their own

farming system. Participants of the congress are also eyeing submitting a resolution requesting the national government and concerned agencies to limit the capacities of the local government units to pass policies that will prohibit the growth of the sector. For instance, Marañon said the proposed ordinance in the province of the Compostela Valley to impose taxes to operators of banana plantations. “We wanted tax holidays while we are on the process of rehabilitation,” he said.

INTERACTION. Aboitiz Power Company chief executive officer Erramon I. Aboitiz interacts with members of the media during the inauguration of Therma South’s 300-megawatt Davao baseload power plant in Binugao, Toril on Friday. Lean Daval Jr.

Mindanao to benefit from Davao coal plant

RESIDENT Benigno Aquino III said Mindanao needs the 300 megawatt (MW) coal-fired power plant of the Therma South Inc. (TSI) in Davao City as hydroelectric power plants in the island region’s major power source became less dependable. “When this plant becomes fully operational, we can count on it to consistently produce 300 megawatts of base load

power, which means that this capacity can be tapped into anytime, rain or shine with very minor fluctuations,” Aquino said during the power plant’s inauguration Friday. The 300MW coal-fired plant, which has 260MW dispatchable net capacity, is expected to be commercially operating by next month. However, the two units of the plant are already supplying its

capacity to the grid as early as now while it is currently undergoing reliability test. “To emphasize just how significant this is, this plant’s dependable capacity is roughly equivalent to one-fifth of the Mindanao grid’s highest peak demand in 2015, and it is already delivering power to areas at the end of the grid, such as Sarangani, General Santos, and the Zamboanga peninsu-

la,” Aquino added. The President, who led the switching-on of the Aboitizowned plant during the inauguration, last Friday, said Mindanao needed additional base load plant to suffice its growing power requirement. Since 2010, he said Mindanao has had very little energy surplus resulting to as much as 8-hours power interruptions.

Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for the initial 300-MW power plant, which makes it easier to build another unit. The chief executive added the expansion cost will have a reduction of 10 percent from its initial project cost for the first unit at PhP35 billion. However, Aboitiz said the expansion will depend on the power demand of Mindanao. “We have to really be on the lookout to see and project the demand so it’s hard to tell exactly because a lot depends

on what growth there will be in Mindanao,” he said. The chief executive stressed the island currently has a supressed demand and will likely grow. Aboitiz said there is no need for the second unit right now due to the expected power stability brought by a number of incoming power plants. Aboitiz Power inaugurated the country’s first coal-fired power plant with its dome Friday, which provides a safe and efficient way for coal storage. The chief executive

stressed the coal plant will help balance the fuel mix of the island as it was hugely dependent on hydropower capacity. The power plant powers more than 20 electric cooperatives in Davao, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Agusan, Surigao, Zamboanga, Bukidnon and Misamis. The first unit started delivering power to the grid in September 2015. Meanwhile, he said Mindanao will still have an oversupply of power capacity by 2020 or 2021. (PNA)

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Therma South Inc eyes 300-MW expansion

HERMA South Inc., a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power Corp., is planning to expand its capacity by another 300 megawatts (MW). “Maybe a little bit more, but our plan was for 300 MW -- but maybe more or less around that number,” Aboitiz Power chief executive officer Erramon I. Aboitiz told reporters at the sidelines of the power plant’s inauguration Friday in Toril, Davao City. He noted the company has secured the land and permits from the Department of

7 GAMECHANGER

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

PROTOTYPE. The Team Blue Knights of Ateneo de Davao University presents its new prototype vehicle Ignite Version 2 during the launch on Friday. The fuel-efficient car will compete in the Shell Eco-Marathon Asia 2016 in Manila on March 3 to 6. Armando B. Fenequito Jr.

All set for

Ignite Version 2 Text and photos by ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

FTER gaining media attention during the Shell Eco-Marathon Asia 2015 for its rattan prototype vehicle, the Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) Blue Knight team 2 has decided to change the car to make it more energy efficient. “We used rattan for its body but the problem with rattan is there are limitations. The organizers are strict when it comes to fire hazardous materials,” AdDU School of Engineering and Architecture Dean engineer Randell Espina said in an interview with EDGE Davao during the launching of Ignite Version 2 on Friday. Espina said their first participation in the contest last year was a learning experience. “Our problem last year was we did not know how and what to do. During

that time, however, we learned a lot through our observation with other schools and countries with their entries,” he said. Espina said the first design had gained attention of the public because their team was the only one that used indigenous materials, which showcased Mindanao. He said the first version of the prototype, although energy efficient, did not complete the 12-kilometer race because of the design. “The problem was we did not complete the loop because there were considerations on the design,” he said. Espina said that the only contingent from the Philippines that finished last year the was the De La Salle University. With Ignite Version 2, the team made a smaller vehicle with automatic engine ignition. “In our

latest version, the driver will just switch on to start the engine unlike last year that we needed to pull a rope to start it,” he said. Espina said the competition demands a lighter weight. The team is targeting to finish all the stages of the races. He said the school is really investing for the new design in order to form the energy-efficient prototype vehicle. “All of us are dreaming to get a place in the competition. But in the actual competition there are limitations that we will encounter,” he said. The AdDU Blue Knight is composed of engineering students, most of them Mechanical Engineering and Electronics and Communications Engineering with faculty as team

THE TEAM. The members of the Team Blue Knights of Ateneo de Davao University are introduced.

adviser. The students composing the team are team captain Nichol Ivan Allawan, driver Luis Alberto Mata, alternate driver Jakal Suyo, and technical team members Noreen Jim Atis, Edel Jan Ugdang, John Mark Diel, and Zechariah Lasa. Engineer Mark Anthony Rotor is

the team adviser. Espina said the idea behind the competition is to let students experience innovating technology. He said AdDU is now inculcating in the students how to innovate and explore technology and not just depend on books.

GODSPEED. Ateneo de Davao University Academic Vice President Fr. Gabriel Gonzales S.J blesses the Ignite Version 2, which will compete in Shell EcoMarathon Asia 2016 in Manila on March 3 to 6.

EDGEDAVAO

8 VANTAGE

VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

EDITORIAL Bloody as Rody sees it

AYOR Rodrigo Duterte offered some insights of the first 100 days of a Duterte presidency. First, it will be bloody. Drug syndicates in the country are heavily armed that you need to draft elite police unit armed forces to mount a nationwide anti-drugs campaign. Drug syndicates are wealthy, well-financed and well-armed. Illegal drugs trade has reached remote communities. Nine out of 10 barangays in Metro Manila have serious illegal drugs problem. And yes, even livestock and poultry are being accepted as payment for illegal drugs like shabu. Can we win the war against drugs? Yes, he categorically said within the first six months. And no extra-judicial killings. Is he ready should he win? His drumbeaters say he is ready to fulfill his promise to the nation that he would stop that almost unabated drug trade in the country.

EDGEDAVAO

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Duterte has reportedly consulted Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) chief Dionisio Santiago. While Santiago did not confirm it, he apparently supplied Duterte with a dossier on the illegal drugs situation and a list of the biggest drug lords in the country. How would he do it? Duterte said he will “use the Special Action Force (SAF) and the elite units of the Armed Forces” in the campaign against drug lords. “I assure our policemen and members of the Armed Forces that I will protect them and support them from legal harassments arising from the performance of their tasks to clear the country of drugs,” Duterte said. The task is daunting. Despite Duterte’s tight watch, illegal drugs have crept into the city through some porous entry points. That is why he believes that if this should be done nationwide, everyone’s cooperation is needed. And we mean here from intelligence to surveillance. No coddling. No eyes shut. Just one serious drive.

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

Effective management of water resources

ATER management issues will become increasingly important across the Region over the next 20-50 years, as cities expand and competition for water resources from these growing communities, as well as industry and agriculture intensifies. Overall its demand for water could increase by a third over the next 20 years says the 2003 ASEAN Long Term Strategic Plan for Water Resources Management. A strategic plan of action on water resources management was subsequently drawn up with Australian government assistance by ASEAN in 2005, to advance better practices for water management in the Region. Issues include problems of food security, improving access to safe and affordable drinking water and sanitation facilities for all, and addressing the degradation of the environment in vulnerable catchments including freshwater and coastal waters. As existing resources are depleted, ex-

VANTAGE POINTS

panding urEUROPE BIZ ban populations could face supply shortages of drinking water as surface water and groundwater resourc- Henry J. Schumacher es reduce. In some areas there is growing use of bottled water. A 2009 survey found that Indonesia was the second largest consumer of bottled water in the Region, in a market forecast to rise to US$ 2.89 billion by 2016. Desalination plants are already in general use throughout the Region, especially in Singapore where around 10% of the city state’s demand for water is met from seawater treat-

ment. The impact of extreme climatic events and their increasing frequency (and we in the Philippines are having plenty of that), added to climate change and variability, are of growing concern to governments in the Region. The Aquino government’s decision to appoint DPWH Secretary Singson as water czar has to be seen in this light. The Philippines and other large coastal populations are particularly vulnerable to any sea level rise, increases in heat extremes and the intensity of tropical cyclones. Extensive flooding is a consequence and has raised water security considerations high on the agenda. Major cities including Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Manila, Cebu and Yangon with their large and fast growing populations and manufacturing assets are highly exposed to increased storm intensity, long term sea level rise and sudden onset of coastal flooding. In a presentation at the ECCP Water Challenge

Forum, Secretary Singson made reference to that. Flood control is high on his agenda. The ECCP jointly with its partners in the EU-Philippine Business Network (EPBN) have created a new sector committee which is focusing on the environmental challenges and the need to address water as a finite commodity. Water conservation and water treatment are high on the agenda of the committee members, knowing that communities in the Philippines have to invest in water resources. A World Bank report observed that most countries in Asia and the Pacific are still in the early stages of making strategic investments to increase climate resilience. This effort is needed to improve early warning systems (Project NOAH of the Department of Science & Technology has done well in developing such warning systems), formulate improved drought management plans, and implement upgraded data collection and monitoring systems.

Cobonpue from THINK ON THESE! Cebu has seen that, too. In fact, he designed “Phoenix,” the world’s first and only car made from bamboo and rattan, which was showcased in Henrylito D. Tacio a furniture fair henrytacio@gmail.com in Milan some years back. The car, which looked like a bird about to take flight, was created in just 10 days with the use of bamboo, rattan, steel, and nylon. According to Inhabitat, an environmental web blog, “Phoenix” is designed to last the average length of time a person keeps a car – about five to 20 years. There are so many potentials from bamboo. Furniture makers and wood craftsmen who shift from wood to bamboo are expected to share in the huge export bonanza expected from a growing demand for bamboo furniture and bamboo handicrafts in the global market. “We’re not talking here of raw bamboo for export, but finished products made from bamboo. From roots to tip, you can make soap, medicines, cosmetics, furniture, bricks, clothing, paper, floor tiles, wall panels, drinks, vegetables – even surf boards from bamboo,” said an official from Department of Trade and Industry. There are a million uses of bamboo. According to an article, which appeared in Reader’s Digest, bamboo “is delicate enough to be used in phonograph needles, yet strong enough to be used in bridge construction.” As such, bamboo can replace or indirectly decrease con-

sumption of three critically scarce resources: wood, metal, and oil. Already, bamboo is being used as scaffolding and concrete reinforcement in the construction of buildings. In Bangladesh, where 73% of the population lives in bamboo houses, bamboo provides pillars, walls, window frames, rafters, room separators, ceilings and roofs. Throughout rural Asia it is used for building bridges, from the sophisticated technology of suspension bridges to the simpler pontoon bridges. In the Philippines, bamboo is also indispensable in the fishing and banana industry. Fishermen use bamboo as material for making rafts, fishing rods, outriggers for bancas, and for fishpens. In salt-water areas, bamboo is used as stakes in the culture of mussels and oysters. Bamboo is also used in the manufacture of musical instruments like horns, clarinets, saxophones, flutes, piccolos, xylophones, and drums. In Java, Indonesia, 20 different musical instruments have been fashioned of bamboo. The world-famous bamboo organ at the Roman Catholic Church of Las Piñas is a historic example of the importance of bamboo. Due to lack or scarcity of wood, it is most likely that the property industry in the country will turn to bamboo as timber replacement. “Bamboo, like true wood, is a natural composite material with high strength-to-weight ratio useful for structures,” wrote Patel Lakkad in a paper published in Fibre Science and Technology. Tessa R. Salazar, in a report published by Philippine Daily Inquirer wrote that “the use of bamboo in the construction of houses has not been as extensive as it should be because the grass is not recognized as a conventional construction material under the building code.”

Bamboo, in its natural form as a construction material, is traditionally associated with the cultures of South Asia, East Asia and the South Pacific and to some extent in Central and South America. In the Philippines, the “nipa” hut is a fairly typical example of the most basic sort of housing where bamboo is used; the walls are split and woven bamboo, and bamboo slats and poles may be used as its support. “The bamboo has long been used by Filipinos for various construction needs. It has also been present in homegrown innovations,” Salazar noted, citing the floating classroom done by architect Edilberto Morcilla. “In areas where strong current and debris can occur, the most practical and cheapest solution is to plant bamboo all around the house,” said Morcilla. Not only that. Bamboos “can give shade and ecological value,” and that they “grow and multiply very rapidly and serve the purpose of defusing the current and debris in a matter of one and a half years or less.” The Philippine Bamboo Industry Development Council was created through Executive Order No. 879. It has been given the task to push for a robust and sustainable bamboo sector nationwide, with the help of other government agencies and the private sector. It mandates the use of bamboo as planting material with at least 20 percent of reforestation species annually. “Bamboo has two different classifications. If they are planted in private lands, they are considered agricultural products. But if they are planted in forest lands, they are non-timber forest products which require gatherers to secure a permit before harvest,” explained Director Ricardo Calderon of the Forest Management Bureau, a line agency of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Let’s develop our bamboo industry

ONTRARY to what most people think, bamboo is a grass and not a tree. In fact, it is a perennial grass belonging to the family Gramineae. It is considered near-relatives of rice, corn, wheat, oats, and barley. There are 75 genera and over 1,250 species in the tropical, sub-tropical and mild temperate regions of the world. In the Philippines, there are 12 bamboo genera consisting of 49 species. Not all bamboo species grown in the country are economically important, however. Only eight so-called erect species are extensively used: “kauayan-tinik,” “kauayan-kiling,” “bayog,” “botong,” giant bamboo, “bolo,” “anos,” and “buho.” Most species of bamboo mature three to four years after initial shoot development. The Philippines is the fifth most important exporter of bamboo products in the world, according to the International Trade of Bamboo and Rattan 2012 report. The top exporter is China. In China, bamboo is one of the four noblest plants. The others are orchid, the plum tree, and of course the chrysanthemum. Bamboo plantations are so vast that they cover mountainous terrain. “It shows the development of bamboo in China is very crucial,” said the late Leonardo Avila III when he was still officer-in-charge of the Davao City Agriculture Office. There is future in bamboo, Roy C. Alimoane, the director of the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center (MBRLC) Foundation, Inc. in Kinuskusan, Bansalan, Davao del Sur, believes. “We have an abundance of bamboo but we don’t know what to do with it,” he says. “It is so common that we ignore its potentials. Other countries have already seen not only the beauty but the potentials of bamboo.” Renowned furniture designer Kenneth

10 NEWS PNP... FROM 4

areas under category 2 since the areas were affected with election-related violence perpetrated by armed groups. She said Digos City in Davao del Sur had been initially placed in both categories 1 and 2 because of previous reports of armed threats and serious political rivalry during the 2013 election. Dela Cerna said the municipalities of Malita and Malalag in Davao del Sur are under category 1 while the municipalities of Bansalan, Sta. Cruz, Padada, Hagonoy, and Kiblawan are under cate-

gory 2. For Davao Oriental, some barangays in Mati City and the municipalities of Lupon and Banay-Banay are placed under category 2. For Compostela Valley, the municipalities of Maco, Mabini, Pantukan, Montevista, Monkayo, and Laak are still under monitoring and are still to be categorized. Dela Cerna said there are affected barangays in these municipalities in Compostela Valley but the monitoring is still in the process. ARMANDO B. FENEQUITO JR.

rary restraining order (TRO) stopping the removal of her name from the list of candidates in the May 2016 elections. The lawmaker asked the SC to consolidate the SET and Comelec cases in order to expedite the proceedings. On the other hand, the poll

body said that it is not obliged to follow the SET ruling on the senator’s natural born status. “The SET ruling cannot circumvent nor does it preclude the Comelec from making a contrary conclusion based on applicable law and jurisprudence,” it said in its comment filed on Thursday. (PNA)

The “vanishing watersheds, and the worsening effects of climate change” caused the capacity of hydroelectric plant to further decrease. More than 50 percent of Mindanao’s generation mix is dependable to water-ran plants. He also said the unstable power situation in Mindanao was a result of the 10-year exemptions from the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) of 2001 which was asked by some solons back then when the energy reserve of the island recede the demand. “To be frank, maybe this exemption would have been fine if the situation has not changed. But the situation did change,” the President said. During the five-year period starting from 2010, the intervention of the government in the past few years included the implementation of programs like the Mindanao Modular GenSets program and the Interruptible Load Program. Aquino said at least another 11 power projects in Mindanao will come online between 2016 and 2020. “(These are) envisioned to produce at least another 675.30 megawatts of capacity, which will be more than enough to cover the projected increase in demand for those years,” he said. Most of these projects are also coal-fired power plants like of the Alsons, San Miguel Power Corporation, and of the Filinvest Development Corporation (FDC). However, he emphasized that the government is still maintaining its goal of increasing the development of more renewable energy sources and mitigating the risk of climate change. “We have increased our usage of renewables, and they now make up 33 percent of our energy mix: we have reduced the number of illegal logging hotspots by 88 percent; and in 2011, we started a National

Greening Program, the goal of which is to plant 1.5 billion trees on 1.5 million hectares by this year,” he added. AboitizPower chief executive officer Erramon I. Aboitiz said the newly-inaugurated coal-fired power plant will be soon expanded for another 345MW, increasing its total installed capacity to 645MW. The construction of the first ever coal-fired power plant in the city in 2012 has a total investment of P35 billion. “We are also pleased to note that following the groundbreaking and construction of this Davao plant, other private power producers have started to invest in Mindanao, and we hope their entry in the coming years will eventually lead to a steady and reliable supply of power in this region,” Aboitiz said. He added that the construction of the plant was part of the company’s commitment to help Mindanao. Aboitiz said the plant’s capacity will be supplied to more than electric cooperatives and distribution utilities all over Mindanao “This facility will serve the areas of Davao, Caraga, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, parts of Bukidnon, parts of Misamis, and parts of the Zamboanga peninsula,” he said. “We hope that the supply of much-needed electricity will help Mindanao sustain its economic growth and fulfill its potential.” In Davao City, the operation of the TSI will increase the contracted supply of Davao Light and Power Company by 50MW. The city’s highest recorded peak demand was at 355MW. TSI will be using state of the art circulating fluidized bed technology referred to as “clean coal” while its coal dome, the first in Southeast Asia will have a capacity to store imported coal from Indonesia for three weeks of operation. CHENEEN R. CAPON

Comelec... FROM 4

Mindanao... FROM 6

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Anti-Smoking Task Force. He said 7-Eleven stores have been found “selling cigarettes, as well as selling and serving fast foods in your premises. Your establishment is classified as Accommodation and Entertainment Establishments as defined under Section 3.” Under Section 3, all establishments classified under accommodation and entertainment or “establishments that provide food, accommodations, drinks, merchandise, entertainment or other professional services” are not allowed to sell cigarettes. Stores located within 100-meter range from schools are also not allowed to sell cigarettes. Under Section 9, first-time offenders will be fined P1,000 or one month imprisonment or both at the discretion of the court. For second offense, a penalty of P2,500 or two months imprisonment while third and subsequent offenses will be fined P5,000 or four months imprisonment. The ordinance prohibits smoking in public conveyances, government-owned vehicles, accommodation and entertainment establishments, workplaces, encloses public places, public buildings, and public outdoor spaces such as cemetery, markets, and termi-

nals. Under Section 7 of Executive Order No. 4, it stated that “the selling of cigarettes or any tobacco shall not be allowed inside the accommodation and entertainment establishments, and public buildings.” However, the city allows smoking in designated areas, provided they are located in an open-space with no permanent or temporary roof or walls in an outdoor area and shall not be located within 10 meters of entrances, exits or any place where people pass or where people congregate. Also, a designated area should not have an area larger than five square meters and the ordinance allows only one designated area per establishment. The selling of food and drinks is also not allowed in designated smoking areas. The ordinance mandates establishments to have “a highly visible and prominently displayed ‘smoking area’ sign and a graphic depiction and corresponding explanation of the ill-effects of smoking to the smoker’s health or exposure to secondhand smoke. Under no circumstances shall any work, device, word or image associated with any tobacco company or product be included in any of these signs and materials.” With a report from MindaNews

crease our farmers’ knowledge about appropriate production technologies in preparation for the effects of climate change. With mechanization, post-harvest losses are also expected to go down,” Alcala said. He noted that in the old milling methods, 50 percent to 53 percent is the average recovery rate whereas milling recovery in rice can go as high as 65 to 68 percent using modern machines and means. “An additional 10 percent palay recovery rate is no laughing matter,” Alcala said. Meanwhile, mechanical dryers dry more grains faster, and the quality of mechanically dried grain is superior than grains dried using archaic techniques. Based on a 2010 study conducted by the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) and the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), a total of 16.47 percent of grains is wasted after harvest. Drying and milling losses were established at 5.86 percent and 5.52 percent, respectively, according to the study. At present, the DA is also gradually integrating rice mills in farmer cooperatives so that in time, they can run their own rice mills. “In the meantime, the thrust of the Aquino administration to promote mechanization in agriculture is also rapidly making Filipino farmers as competitive as their counterparts in the Southeast Asian region,” Alcala said. “The great strides the Aquino government has made

in promoting mechanization have borne fruit such that we are now at a level that is at par with our ASEAN neighbors in terms of rice and corn production costs,” he said. Based on a study made by PhilMech on rice farms using combo harvesters and mechanical transplanters in Regions 1 and 2, production costs reached PhP 7.87 per kilogram. This is much lower than the national average of PhP 11 per kilogram. In comparison, Thailand is at PhP 8.37/kg while Vietnam is at PhP 6.07/kg. Increasing farm mechanization has been the main reason for the lower rice and corn productions costs. According to the same PhilMech study, the country’s mechanization level for rice and corn is now at 3.0 horsepower per hectare (hp/ha) which is already near the level of Thailand at 4.0 hp/ha – and higher than our level in 2013 which was at 2.31 hp/ha. In contrast, the country’s mechanization rate in the late 1990s stood at only 0.5 hp/ha. The DA acknowledged that greater accessibility to new technologies, again chiefly due to the support from the private sector, has caused mechanization trend to firmly take root in the country. “Continuous efforts to promote mechanization through the development of locally-made machineries that are not only cheaper but are more suitable to Philippine conditions have led to faster adoption rate by farmers,” Alcala said. (PNA)

DA... FROM 6

Nat’l... FROM 6

year-on-year. While the persistent downtrend of oil prices caused January-November collections on oil to drop by 32 percent, non-oil collections continue to look encouraging with growth of over 11 percent. Meanwhile, income from the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) amounted to P3.1 billion for November, pushing the year-to-date total to P100.5 billion, 12 percent higher than year-ago figures. The Bureau of the Treasury is still 81 percent above its full year 2015 program. National government disbursements for the month reached P171.4 billion, expanding 13 percent year-on-year. For the period of January to Novem-

ber, expenditures reached P1.99 trillion, reflecting an increase of 13 percent from year-ago levels. Year-to-date, interest payments amounted to P287.9 billion, 13 percent or P42.8 billion lower than programmed. Interest payments for January-November 2015 accounted for 14 percent of expenditures, improving on the 17 percent share recorded last year. “Prudent and proactive liability management is reaping dividends for future generations of Filipinos. Our grandchildren will live to have a much lesser burden on their backs. This is a future we want to secure through a sound fiscal position and a resilient economy,” Purisima said.

Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communication LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Regional Office No. XI Davao City

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a PUJ DUAL Ordinary Regular Service

Case No. 2001-XI-02399 MARINO P. RAMIREZ, Petitioner

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of a PUJ-DUAL Regular Service on the route: CIRCULATION ROUTE 10 and for cargoes as dual service from said route to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on November 4, 2016. In the petition filed on December 10, 2015 petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized. NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on JANUARY 26, 2016 at 09:40 a.m. at this office at the above address. At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

Parties opposed to the granting of the petition must file their written opposition supported by documentary evidence on or before the above date furnishing a copy of the same to the petitioner, and may if they so, desire appear on said date and time. This petition will be acted upon by this Board on the basis of its records and the documentary evidence submitted by the parties, unless the Board deems it necessary to receive additional documentary and/ or oral evidence.

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 10th day of December 2015 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

Petition for Renewal of a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI Service

Case No. 2014-XI-00238 HAZEL O. JAVIER, Petitioner

x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --x

NOTICE OF HEARING Petitioner is a grantee of a Certificate of Public Convenience issued in this case authorizing the operation of an AIRCONDITIONED TAXI service on the route: WITHIN DAVAO CITY to any point in Region XI with the use of ONE (1) unit, which Certificate will expire on March 9, 2016. In the petition filed on December 18, 2015 petitioner request authority to extend the validity of said certificate to operate along the same route with the use of the same unit previously authorized. NOTICE, is hereby given that this petition will be heard by this Board on FEBRUARY 2, 2016 at 09:20 a.m. at this office at the above address. At least, TEN (10) days prior to the above date petitioner shall publish this Notice once in a one (1) daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao

WITNESS the Honorable BENJAMIN A. GO, CESO V, Regional Director, this 18th day of December 2015 at Davao City.

TERESITA DELA PEÑAYÑIGUEZ Chief Transportation Development Officer

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EDGEDAVAO FOOD

EASY and FRESH

Healthy dishes for a healthy 2016

HAPPY 2016, ROYALTIES! It’s the start of another year which means a whole lot of new things to do, curiosity to satisfy and of course, foods to try and eat. With a new calendar ahead, it’s going to be another year of fun, food and learnings for us all. And #TRC cannot wait!

Instead of the usual, here’s some of my personal favorite munchies that’s not only easy to make but will help you clean your pantries in an instant.

Before we start filling our calendars with events and whathaveyous, let’s not forget to pay attention to our pantries. Yes, our year-end splurge surely has lots of fresh veggies and fruits in store for the hungry us. Instead of the usual, here’s some of my personal favorite munchies that’s not only easy to make but will help you clean your pantries in an instant. Enjoy! Papaya Salad with a Kick A delicious new dish for your leftover papaya. Best served with grilled fish. Cut the papaya in half and get rid of the seeds. Once clean, cut into strips and then in chunks. Set aside. In a large bowl, add thinly sliced onions, fresh cilantro or basil, fresh calamansi juice, extra virgin olive oil (TIP:always use EVOO for your salads and no heat dish), freshly grated ginger, chili powder or fresh chilies, salt and pepper to taste. Chickpeas with Herbs The versatility of the chickpeas makes them a pantry must have – for me, that is. This recipe is your basic chickpeas staple that can be used for all your dishes that requires chickpeas. Mash them, keep them whole or blend – any way you want, they

guarantee a taste so distinct you’d love to munch on them on any given day. In a deep pot, add 2 cups of drained chickpeas (I used canned – you can also use dried). Using a cheesecloth, make an herb bouquet of onion (white, quartered), fresh thyme and bay leaves. You can always mix and match your herbs. Add herb bouquet to the pot. Pour at least 8 to 10 cups of cold water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, lower down heat and let the chickpeas cook until tender. At least an hour. Add salt and pepper to the pot. Cook until chickpeas are tender on the outside and creamy on the inside. Once done, drain the chickpeas. Store in the fridge. CCM Slaw – Cabbage, Carrot and Mango This is the easiest appetizer/salad you can ever whip with all your leftovers. Not only is this easy to make, it’svery vibrant and rich in vitamins too. Don’t be limited with the ingredients – add toasted

pine nuts, mint and honey for that festive new year kick! In a cold bowl, whish freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey, cumin powder (optional), cayenne pepper, salt and pepper. Gradually add a third of a cup of EVOO. Set aside. In another bowl, add slawed cabbage, julienned carrots and mango stips. Toss to combine. Season to taste. Toss veggies and dressing in cold bowl. Mashed Potatoes – 4 Easy Ways Personally, I love how easy and versatile a cup

of mashed potato can be. With your cravings and pantry staples, you can always come up with a new flavor and taste that you will surely love. Remember: Mix and match your flavours! • Cheesy Mashed Potato In a bowl, add mashed potatoes (use real potatoes!), grated shard cheddar cheese and minced garlic. Mix well. • Spicy Tuna Mashed Potato In a bowl, add mashed potatoes, canned spicy tuna flakes and garlic powder. Mix well. • Garlicky Mashed

Potato In a bowl, add mashed potato, minced garlic, garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste. Oftentimes, I add some other fragrant herbs to make the garlic flavour stand out. • Creamy Mashed Potato In a bowl, add mashed potato, cream cheese, all purpose cream, salt, garlic powder and pepper. Mix well. Can also add chopped green onions for that addeed zing. Make #TheRoyalChef your Thursday habit! I am on Instagram (@theroyalchefleebai) and twitter (@ herroyalheiress).

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EVENT

Yamaha brings happiness to SOS Children’s Village YAMAHA MOTOR PHILIPPINES continued their dedication to the Filipino Community by partnering with different Yamaha Club groups to share the holiday spirit with the kids of the SOS Children’s Village last December 11, 2015. The Kids Kringle, the event’s official name, was attended by several executives of Yamaha. In attendance was Sales and Marketing Adviser, Mr. Norio

Ota; Marketing Section Manager, Mr. Ryan Jude Camus; Mindanao Sales Manager, Peter Salvadico; and Yamaha Club Head, Mr. Kristoffer Manayaga who opened the Kids Kringle toy box. Presidents of Yamaha Club groups from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao distributed the toys to the children. A plaque to commemorate the event was presented to the Village Director, Mr. Leonilo Rivero. Yamaha understand the importance of sharing the

joy of Christmas and also the offering of thoughts, actions, and service is what makes events such as this truly magical. It was something the children gave back to the people of Yamaha Motor Philippines, it was their laughter, their smile, the fun that they were having. Those small moments coming together is what Yamaha is all about, that is what Revs your Heart truly is; things that are timeless, things that are irreplaceable, things that last a lifetime.

Globe welcomes arrival of Netflix in PH GLOBE TELECOM is gearing up for the arrival of Internet television network Netflix in the Philippines with its roster of home broadband plans which come with free access to Chromecast, allowing customers to enjoy Netflix from any mobile device to a bigger screen.

Customers on a Globe Home Broadband Plan 1299 and up can access Netflix with Chromecast, a thumb-sized media streaming device that plugs into the HighDefinition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) port of one’s television set at home. With Chromecast, customers can cast their smartphone, tablet, or laptop to a big-

ger screen for a better and more inclusive viewing experience. Chromecast is compatible with Android devices, tablets, iPhones, iPads, Macs or Windows laptops or Chromebooks, allowing users to cast their favorite entertainment and apps to the big screen. Globe Platinum Broadband customers can also avail of Chromecast for free starting at Plan 2499 to Plan 9499. “Netflix finally lands on Philippine shores and we at Globe are committed to continue enabling the digital lifestyle of our customers with our portfolio of home broadband plans which offer fast and consistent broadband internet connectivity as

well as access to Chromecast for a for a better and more inclusive viewing experience at home,” shares Dan Horan, Senior Advisor for Consumer Business at Globe. Globe is also offering Filipinos a seamless subscription experience via its GCash Mastercard as a payment facility. With the GCash Mastercard, even noncredit card owners can subscribe and get a Netflix account to enjoy access to 100 million hours of TV shows and movies per day. GCash Mastercard is a reloadable prepaid card that allows customers to make purchases in retail stores anywhere in the world, shop online in local and international e-commerce sites,

withdraw from ATMs or GCash outlets nationwide, load money instantly, and track all spending via the GCash app or by dialling *143#. To get a Globe Home Broadband plan, users can go to any Globe Store, any authorized Globe agent, call 730-1010 or visit http://tattoo.globe.com.ph. To get a GCash Mastercard, users can simply visit a GCash Mastercard caravan nationwide, get a GCash account, activate the GCash Mastercard account by linking it to a user’s Globe/TM number, and fund the GCash wallet via GCash outlets, Bancnet ATMs, GCash app, or online bank transfer. Users can also apply for a card online which they

can pick up at select Globe stores. To know more, visit www.GetGCashMC.com. Netflix is a leading Internet television network with over 69 million members in over 60 countries enjoying more than 100 million hours of TV shows and movies per day, including original series, documentaries, and feature films. Members can watch as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, on nearly any Internet-connected screen. Members can play, pause, and resume watching, all without commercials or commitments. Netflix is also available for Android and iOS-powered mobile devices and tablets using mobile data or Wi-Fi connection.

VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

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ENTERTAINMENT

That’s Entertainment stars mourn German ‘Kuya Germs’ Moreno’s death FORMER That’s Entertainment stars bid their “Pa,” “Nong,” “Ninong,” “Mentor,” and one and only Kuya Germs “goodbye” through touching social media posts.

Billy Crawford, known as Billy Joe back then, cites that he is “hurt” to see his father figure leave. The singer started his career in the youth-oriented variety show. Sunshine Cruz sincerely thanks Kuya Germs for believing in her when she was still starting in the industry. Sunshine is part of the show’s Wednesday group along with Sheryl Cruz, Giselle Tongi, and Romnick Sarmienta, among others. Just last week, the Master Showman was still able to greet Jessa Zaragoza an advance Happy Birthday and also sent words of encouragement to the singer-actress for her upcoming birthday concert. Jessa will be holding her concert on Jan 15. The Phenomenal Diva also feels “at peace” for being able to tell Kuya

Germs how much she loves him during their last phone call. However, it’s a different story for former recording Tootsie Guevara. She grieves, “My only regret is that I wasn’t able to tell you this in person... But I know you can hear me. We will miss you Kuya Germs. Goodbye” Tootsie is now based in OC, California and is a Corporate Business Development Executive. The Master Showman has lived most of his life as an entertainment icon. And Iza Calzado only has love and respect for the showbiz legend. Being in the industry for more than 50 years, he has never stopped doing what he loves. He even returned to work right after he recovered from a mild stroke just last year. Iza notes how the humble man even goes out of his way just to attend showbiz related events. In the photo, Kuya Germs and Iza are seen with Superstar Nora Aunor and John Nite at Noel Ferrer’s book launch. Vina posted her last photo with Kuya Germs. The photo was taken during the Walang Tulugan host’s birthday celebration last October. Lea Salonga and Vina Morales

are both in show’s Thursday group. Manila Vice Mayor Isko Moreno says that there would be no Isko Moreno without Kuya Germs. Isko Moreno joined That’s Entertainment back in 1993. Judy Ann thanks the Master Showman for the chance he gave her and her fellow artists. Gladys Reyes notes, “Hanggang sa huli ipinaramdam mo ang iyong pagmamahal sa industriya.” While Janno Gibbs simple says, “Labyu Tay!” The three are also included in the show’s Tuesday group, together with Billie and Jessa, among others. Monday Group’s Lotlot de Leon and Carmina Villaroel, and Friday Group’s Cris Villanueva also thanked their loving mentor. That’s Entertainment is a Filipino youth-oriented talent and variety show on GMA Network which aired from 1986 to 1996. Hosted by the late German “Kuya Germs” Moreno, the show also produced some of the biggest starts we know today. German Moreno died last Friday, January 8 around 3:20 a.m. from cardiac arrest. He was 82.

KathNiel fever hits Vietnam THE KATHNIEL FEVER has officially hit Vietnam after Vietnamese fans voted for Philippine television’s Teen King and Queen, Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo, as the Best Foreign Actor and Actress in the upcoming Face of the Year Awards, which happens this Friday (Jan 8) in Ho Chi Minh City.

The two got the highest number of public votes in the said categories for their portrayals in the series “Got to Believe,” which aired last year on Vietnamese television via IMC’s Today TV. The show proved to be a big hit among viewers and rated very well on its 7 PM to 8 PM daily primetime slot. Kathryn and Daniel will personally receive their respective awards at the gala night to be held in Ho Chi Minh City’s Opera House. Last year, Richard Yap and Jodi Sta. Maria also won the same awards for their series “Be Careful with My Heart,” which was also phenomenal in the said country. Other dramas that aired in Vietnam in recent years include

January 8 – 12, 2016

BEAUTY AND THE BESTIE

“Mara Clara,” “The Legal Wife,” Sana Bukas Pa ang Kahapon,” and “Ikaw Lamang.” ABS-CBN’s content is made available across other territories through ABS-CBN International Distribution. ABS-CBN International Distribution has been recognized in the global arena as a reliable foreign content provider. It has been a premier source of high quality Filipino programming

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Vice Ganda, Coco Martin, James Reid, Nadine Lustre PG

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SNOOPY & CHARLIE BROWN: THE PEANUTS MOVIE Francesca Capaldi, Madisyn Shipman, Mariel Sheets G

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EXTRACTION / * LEGEND Kellan Lutz, Bruce Willis, Gina Carano / * Tom Hardy, Emily Browning R13 / * R16

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EDGEDAVAO

A4 INdulge!

VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

EVENT

Waterfront’s Aqueous New Year’s countdown 2015 has come and gone and Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao made sure that it gave it the send-off it very well deserved. Guests, loyal patrons and first-timers reveled in Aqueous: Music & Dance Countdown Party last December 31, 2015 at the Garden Pavilion. Enthused with the concept, the event had a Coachella-inspired theme, treating party-goers to several games and activities, a hefty cocktail buffet and upbeat fun and entertainment. Prior to all the excitement, however, a New Year’s Eve Mass was celebrated as it is tradition to thank the Lord for the blessings that was

bestowed upon us this past year. Café Uno also served a one-night only gastronomic dinner buffet that was open to all. The awardwinning culinary team of Executive Chef Victor D. Barangan outdid themselves with the delightful spread. Heavy helpings of Beef Gyro, Yakitori, Chori Slidders, Cajun Pasta and a lot more soothed any a rumbling tummy as party doors opened at 9:00pm. A new commodity for this year’s Countdown Party were the Activity Gazebos that kept in line with the overall theme of the party. There was the Expression Wall, where one can write their resolutions for the coming year; the Aqueous Salon, where

one can get free back massages and have their nails and hair done for a minimal fee; the Aqueous Artistry, where party-goers can get their face painted and henna tattoos; the Aqueous Bar, where all the cocktails and other drinks can be availed; and the guaranteed hit, Vent Your Ire, an activity that entails you to write all your inner feelings that needs release on purchased breakables and throw them to a wall, smashing them into several pieces. The sound of breaking glass rang clear throughout the night, and in a good way. Drag Artist Davao entertained the audience with their energetic production numbers that added to the already hyped up mood. Beats

and mixes provided by Music Authority and Davao’s hippest disc jockey, DJ Torch, kept revelers on their feet and their moods elevated as we all waited for the clock to strike midnight. Games and extravagant raffle prizes were also instrumental in psyching up each and everyone present. At the stroke of 12:00 midnight, horns tooted and greetings and salutations rang loud amidst a rain of balloons and a backdrop of fireworks and a fire show culminated a fabulous 2015. The hotel would like to thank and acknowledge our generous sponsors and event partners: Canon Marketing Philippines Inc., Pheonix Petroleum Philippines, Inc., Infinity Still & Motion Stu-

dio, MGCP Steelworks & Allied Services, APM Ad & Promo Management, Cocktails & Dreams, Tanduay Distillers, Inc., Technolux, Golden Touch by Noel Tanza, Stunning Events & Weddings and Floral Pink Designs for the fabulous décor, A Touch of Pink, Pacify Spa and Sadya Salon and Eden Nature Park & Resort. For inquiries, reservations and updates on our events, promos and culinary offerings, contact us at (082) 233 2881 to 87 or 300 8881 or visit our website at www.waterfronthotels.com.ph. Like us also on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ waterfront.davao and follow us on Instagram and Twitter at WaterfrontDavao.

11 BIGGER PICTURE

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

Mindanao needs

coal-fired

power plants

UILDING coal-fired power plants is necessary to respond to Mindanao’s power needs even as the country is developing renewable energy projects to mitigate the effects of climate change, President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday said. Speaking at the inauguration of the coal-fired power plant of Therma South Inc., a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power, Aquino emphasized the need to build more baseload power plants that can be tapped anytime “rain or shine, with very minor fluctuations.” He lashed at critics who opposed the construction of coal-fired power plants due to its potential risks to the environment. “They (Aboitiz Power) did all this even in the face of harsh critics who would speak loudly against us during the dry period—when the hydropower production is low—and completely forget about the issue during the rainy season. These critics also made the most unreasonable demands: cheap, renewable, and sufficient energy, delivered yesterday,” he said in a three-page speech. Aquino was the guest of honor during the inauguration of the plant at Toril District in Davao City. The president said the construction of the coal plants could not be prevented since Mindanao is in dire need of power but that they have not set aside developing more renewable energy projects to address climate change. He said at least 33 percent of the country’s energy mix came from renewable sources. In Mindanao, over half of the island’s supply comes from hydropower sources that rely on rainfall.

“The Mindanao situation has made it obvious that we also need more baseload power. After all, while I am a believer in developing renewables, at this point we are still hounded by the questions: What if there’s no wind? What if the clouds are overcast and the solar efficiency is down? What if we do not have enough biomass? Unfortunately, right now, we cannot wean ourselves completely from relying on coal,” he said. Aquino said Mindanao’s power woes started when no investors came to Mindanao to build more capacities while the demand has continued to grow after Mindanao legislators sought for a 10-year exemption from the Electric Power Industry Reform Act. “The result: As the demand for electricity grew, the supply didn’t. In fact, the hydroelectric plants that were once abundant sources of energy suffered from a number of factors, including the lack of regular maintenance, the vanishing watersheds, and the worsening effects of climate change,” he said. “In recent years, Mindanao has had very little energy surplus. In 2010, this resulted in rotating brownouts that understandably frustrated our countrymen, and that stifled local economies. This was a problem we had anticipated even before we took office, which is why, from day one, we made a stern commitment to foster an environment that would encourage the private sector to make massive investments in energy in Mindanao,” he said. Two more units from the San Miguel Corporation, each with 150-MW capacity, will start commercial operation by second quarter of this year,

according to Noriel Christopher Reyes, science research specialist II at the Department of Energy II at the Department of Energy’s Electric Power Industry Management Bureau, in a forum on power outlook for Mindanao in November 2015 in Davao City.

Won’t harm environment Aboitiz Power CEO Erramon I Aboitiz assured Mindanao stakeholders that the company’s latest Therma South Energy Project in Toril will not harm the environment, saying the destructive impact of power plants “is now a thing of the past.” Aboitiz said the coal-fired power plant does not pollute the air as there is no smoke emission, claiming they brought in the most modern technology to build this plant. The pollution “will not be tolerated under Aboitiz watch,” he said. He said the power firm cannot afford putting its host communities at risk since they have been home to Aboitiz companies for years. The plant site is between Toril and Barangay Inawayan, Sta. Cruz town in Davao del Sur. “The power plant uses the latest circulating fluidized bed combustion technology that minimizes emissions and ensures that the power plant meets Philippine Clean Air Act (RA 8749) standards. It houses the country’s first coal dome, which provides a safe and efficient way to store coal fuel,” he said. He added “the power plant also uses an Electrostatic Precipitator, which electrically charges and removes more than 99 percent of dust and other particles from the effluents.” The power plant will be monitored by the Continuous

Emission Monitoring System of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Environmental Management Bureau to ensure it adheres to RA 8749. A multi-partite monitoring team was set up since the start of plant construction in 2012 to ensure compliance with the environmental compliance certificate. The team was composed of non-government organizations, government agencies and regulators.

The power firm partnered with the indigenous people to establish a carbon sink management program in Marilog, Davao City. Aboitiz said the company infused a total of P35 billion for the completion of TSI’s two units, and employed over 4,500 coming from its host communities at its peak. The 150-MW of TSI 1 started commercial operation last September 2015 while the 150-MW TSI 2 is currently undergoing “reliability test”

before it will go on commercial operation next month. A total of 100 MW has been contracted to Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC), another fully-owned subsidiary of Aboitiz Power, while the rest will be delivered to over 20 electric cooperatives and distribution utilities in Caraga, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, parts of Bukidnon, parts of Misamis and parts of Zamboanga Peninsula, Aboitiz said. (Antonio L. Colina IV/MindaNews)

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Advertise with Tel No. 082.221.3601/224.1413 Email: edgedavao@gmail.com marketing@edgedavao.net

13 YEARENDER

EDGEDAVAO VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

Soaring... FROM 5 from the Jose G. Burgos Jr. for Biotech Journalism: The title of my feature: Golden Rice. It appeared in Health and Fitness, a magazine supplement of the Manila-based Business Mirror. Best Agriculture Feature Story Regional from the Bright Leaf Agriculture Journalism Awards: My three-part series on Ending Hunger, which was serialized in EDGE Davao, won me the coveted recognition. Explanatory/Investigative Story of the Year from the Globe Media Excellence Awards: My two-part report on how Davao was transformed by being tagged as «Murder City» during the 1980s to one of the safest cities in the world today nailed this recognition. They were published in EDGE Davao. Reporter of the Year from the Globe Media Excellence Awards: My in-depth report on how the dreaded HIV/ AIDS is growing in Davao City earned nods from the judges. The feature appeared in EDGE Davao. “I wasn’t able to attend to receive the first two awards from Jose G. Burgos Jr. Awards for Biotech Journalism since I wasn’t informed ahead of time. The first place in the news report category was my second since I won the same award two years earlier.

“I also receive another award from the Bright Leaf Agriculture Journalism Awards the previous year but it was for a feature story which was published in a national magazine, Marid Agribusiness. “In the last award-giving body, I got three nominations but settled for two awards. The Reporter of the Year was my second already since two years before I also got the same recognition.” The recent five awards are additions to Henrylito’s other 22 awards. In 1994, he received three journalism awards: Binhi Award as Countryside-Based Agricultural Journalist given by the Philippine Agriculture Journalists, Inc., a runner-up in the Science and Technology Journalism Award given by Philippine Press Institute, and second prize winner in the Earthsavers Media Awards given by the Earthsavers Movement and United Nations Environment Program. In 1995, he clinched two awards: Second Prize in the PPI’s Science and Technology Journalism Awards and another second prize from the Earthsavers Movement and UNEP. In 1996, PAJ named Tacio as its Countryside Agricultural and Environmental Jour-

nalist of the Year while PPI bestowed a runner-up recognition in its annual Science and Technology Journalism Awards. In 1997, the PPI finally gave him its top prize -- first prize in the Science and Technology Journalism Awards. The regional office of the De-

partment of Environment and Natural Resources had also bestowed on him the Regional Best Environmental Campaign in Print, Radio and TV. The year 1998 was a lucky year. PPI didn’t only name first prize winner in its annual competition; it also elevated him to the Hall of Fame in Science Reporting. Even more brighter was 1999. Tacio bagged the Journalist of the Year award from the Rotary Club of Manila, thereby defeating such Manila-based journalists like Conrado de Quiros (for print), Ces Drilon (for television) and DWIZ-Siyasat Team (for HENRY TACIO. 5 major radio). In addition, he was awards in 2015. given the top award for print in the journalism contest sponsored by the AIDS Society of the Philippines. Those awards became passport for Henry to travel abroad. As part of the prize in winning the AIDS Print Award, he was given the opportunity to attend international conferences in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Melbourne, Australia; and Durban, South Africa. Bright Leaf Agriculture Journalism Awards also provided me and VICTORIOUS. Edge Davao executives celebrate the back-to-back victory. From left, Director of Sales Jocelyn S. Panes, General Manager Olivia D. Velasco, awards night host David Celdran, Manila office Marketing Manager Angelica R. Garcia, and Editor-In-Chief Antonio M. other winners a trip to Ajero. Edge Davao won 3 national awards. Beijing, China last year.

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016

EDGEDAVAO Sports 15

Unranked chesser leads Koronadal tilt

NHERALDED Earl Cyrus Catedral surged on top of the leaderboard after the first round of the 2016 Mayor Peter Miguel Open Chess Championships at the Gaisano Grand in Koronadal City. Catedral struck for the full point to tow fellow 1-pointers John Marvin Miciano (RTG 2166), Carl Zirex Sato (2084), Alberto Diolola Jr. (20128), Gino Angelo Asuncion (2013), Bhing Joel Gimony (1997), Sekak Sumail (1913), and Baltazar Rafales Jr. (1876). Davao’s top bet John Rey Batucan is at 11th. Rank after Round 1 Rk. Name FED Rtg Pts. 1

CATEDRAL Earl Cyrus

PHI

1,0

3 5 6 7 9 12

SATO Carl Zirex DIOLOLA Alberto Jr. PHI ASUNCION Gino Angelo GIMONY Bhing Joel PHI SEKAK Sumail Iii RAFALES Baltazar Jr.

PHI 2028 PHI 1997 PHI PHI

2084 1,0 2013 1,0 1913 1876

1,0

9 16 11 4 10 11 13 14 15

MICIANO John Marvin

PHI

AZOTE Ahmad Ali PHI APARTE Yeongsa PHI BATUCAN John Ray PHI CANINO Romeo SALUDSONG Tahseen

MAGDUGO Kriztian PHI AMBOR Eugene Jauhari BANTUGAN James Rhey APARTE Seong Ho PHI

1985 1772 2168 PHI PHI 1889 PHI PHI 1850

2166

0,5 0,5 0,0 2032 1893 0,0 1873 1871 0,0

1,0 1,0 1,0 1,0 0,0 0,0 0,0 0,0

In other front, no. 14 seed Alritz Jefferson Amor upset no. 4 seed Chrisus Joseph Sarchez of host Koronadal City. Rank after Round 1 Rk. Name

1 3 4 5 1950 7 8 14

CARESOSA Japheth Aaron CANINO Ronald SARCHEZ Chrisus Joshua PLACENCIA Kurt John 1,0 COMENDADOR Marc Jason AYON Charles Faith AMOR Alritz Jefferson

FED

Rtg

Pts.

PHI PHI

1926 1892 PHI

1,0 1,0

PHI PHI PHI

2018 2003 1997 PHI

1,0 1,0 1,0

L-R: IA James Infiesto (NCFP Region XI Director) Atty. Elnathan Emilio (President, Koronadal Chess Club)GM Jayson Gonzales (NCFP Executive Director) Mayor Peter B. Miguel of Koronadal City, Ms. Fe Mangayayam

(ASEAN Para Games medalist from Koronadal City), Mr. Tony Aguilar (Koronadal City Sports Coordinator) and Karina Peñola (Chess player and steward from Koronadal).

8th Kidapawan Open chessfest set Feb. 6-7

HE annual 8th Kidapawan Open Chess Championships is slated on Februry 6-7 at the Kidapawan Convention Center in Kidapawan City. “We are expecting more than 100 chess players from all over Mindanao and the other parts of the country,” said Dr. Ted Calica, president of the organizing Kidapawan Chess Club, Inc. Defending champion is International Master Oliver Dimakiling, who has won it four times in a row from 2012 up to 2015. The native of Davao City is expected to contend anew with the other top chess players coming from all over the country. The two-day event is part of the Foundation Anniversary of the host City led by Mayor Joseph A. Evangelista. “The city government of Kidapawan has been generously supporting the sports event since its maiden staging

eight years ago,’” Calica said. The annual chess tourney has provided a challenging venue for chess enthusiasts, including new and aspiring players in the host city and the province of Cotabato to compete on a high level with the other top players in Mindanao. In fact, the Kidapawan Open has attracted top calibre chess players as shown by its past champions. International Master Edgar Reggie Olay, who was still then only a National Master from Kidapawan won the maiden edition in 2009. GM Oliver Barbosa (who was still an IM) then ruled it in 2010 followed by Davao’s Reynaldo Gempero Jr. the following year. Dimakiling, who is now based in Manila, then dominated it for four years. The event is a nine-round Swiss System Open Tournament with time control of 30 minutes for each player for

the entire game. The champion will bring home a cash prize of P15,000 plus a medal, while the first runner-up will get P10,000 plus a medal. The second and third runners-up will be awarded P5,000 and P3,000 with medals, respectively. The 4th to 9th runners-up will receive P1,000 each. Special awards and medals will also be given to the Best Kiddie Player, Best Junior Player, and Best Female Player. It is a brainchild of the KCCI under the leadership of Dr. Calica and in coordination with the Kidapawan City Government thru its Sports Coordinator Ramil Deldo and the Batch 85 – Notre Dame of Kidapawan Boys and Girls HS Alumni Association, Inc. Mayor Evangelista expressed his full support to the 8th staging and said that the tournament not only exposes the youth of Kidapawan City to top competitive chess but

also molds them as deliberate and responsible leaders. “Many top rated players based in Metro Manila has also joined the event, thus making it one of the most anticipated events in observance of the city’s Foundation Anniversary,” said Evangelista. Registration is now on-going for all Filipino players of all ages, rated or non-rated, male or female, residing anywhere in the Philippines. Registration fee is P300 for players residing outside Kidapawan while Kidapawan City players will only pay P200. Players are encouraged to bring their own chess set and chess clock for the event. Deadline for registration is on February 6 at 9:00 a.m. All entries must be submitted by email at Kidapawanchessclub@yahoo.com or contact Dr. Ted P. Calica(09392632482/(064)2885746) or Chief Arbiter Jojo Palero (0946-4067722).

students of the various Notre Dame schools in Mindanao as well as by the other schools in Davao City, General Santos City, Koronadal City, Tacurong City, Kidapawan City and other nearby cities. Some players, particularly alumni of Notre Dame, also travelled all the way from Metro Manila to participate in the tourney, which has become a regular event in Davao City’s golf circuit. The organizers expect more than 100 players to participate in this year’s edition, especially as the Notre Dame alumni has invited theAteneo de Davao alumni during the 4th Notre Dame Cup to engage

in an “Ateneo v. Notre Dame” dual meet in this year’s event. The format of this side event is now being formulated by the organizers with the assistance of the Apo Golf management. Proceeds of the past tournaments were used by Batch 85 and 86 to renovate and refurbish the audio-visual room of the Notre Dame of Kidapawan College Integrated Basic Education Department (NDKC-IBED) and to provide for the health needs of its members. This is way for the alumni of Notre Dame of Kidapawan to give something back to their alma mater in the form of socially-oriented projects.

Tee times are from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on 6 February 2016, Saturday, while the awardingceremonies is at 3:00 p.m. at the Apo clubhouse. Ticket price is very reasonable at only Php1,500.00, which entitles the player to giveaways, one practice round, free green fee on tournament day and participation in the raffle. Please contact Tournament Directors Atty. Dan P. Calica (0918-9021169) and Noel Macaya (0917-8588292) as well as Carlene Collado, 09394199890, Chona Gomez, 09228899469, and Elmo Butardo, 0917-5589530, for tickets and inquiries.

Apo Golf to host 5th Notre Dame Cup Feb. 6

T Amway Health Run set Feb. 21

AMWAY HEALTH RUN. Mia Jamisola of Amway Business Center Davao explains the mechanics of the 4th Amaway Health Run in Davao. Lean Daval Jr.

HE fourth staging of the Amway Health Run will take centerstage on February 21 in Davao City with around 3,000 runners expected to take part. The annual run of the leading global direct selling brand will have three categories in 1-Kilometer, 5-Kilometer and 10-Kilometer divisions for men and women. Starting gun is at 4:30 pm beginning at the SM City Davao carpark. All categories end at the same venue where exciting prizes and raf-

fles await finishers. The Health Run will benefit Amway’s One by One charity program for children. Registration Fee is pegged at P350 with free race kit and ABO membership. The other staging of the Health Run will be in SM Mall of Asia and in Cagayan de Oro. The Health Run will also feature fitness camps and outreach activities. Vantage Sports under Kenneth Sai is Amway’s local racing partner. (NJB)

HE scenic but challenging Apo Golf and Country Club golf course will host the 5th Notre Dame Cup scheduled on 6 February 2016. This is the fifth edition of the Notre Dame Cup, which is a charity fun golf tournament organized by Batch 85 – Notre Dame of Kidapawan Boys and Girls HS Alumni Association, Inc. and Batch 86 – Notre Dame of Kidapawan for Boys and Girls to raise funds for their respective socio-civic and community projects. The past four editions of the tourney have been well-attended by alumni and

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VOL. 8 ISSUE 204 • SUNDAY-MONDAY, JANUARY 10 - 11, 2016